Green Tree Snail (also known as the Emerald Land Snail)
Phylum Mollusca, Class Gastropoda, Order Stylommatophora, Family Camaenidae, Genus Papuina, Species Papuina pulcherrima · Camaenidae (Air-breathing land snails) · Gastropod, whole spiral shell
Species
Papuina pulcherrima
Shell Type
Gastropod, whole spiral shell
Family
Camaenidae (Air-breathing land snails)
Size
Approximately 1 inch to 1.5 inches in height. This is typical for adult specimens of this arboreal species.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant, striking apple green to emerald green coloration with delicate yellowish growth lines and a lighter whitish apex. The green color is natural and derived from the periostracum and shell layer.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare in the international collector market, as strict export laws and localized habitat make them harder to source legally.
Habitat
Arboreal habitat, found living on the leaves and branches of trees and shrubs in tropical rainforests. It is a strictly terrestrial land snail species.
Geographic Range
Native to the island of Manus and surrounding islands in Papua New Guinea.
Description
A remarkably vivid, conical land snail shell characterized by its smooth, glossy surface and brilliant green pigmentation. The spire is elevated with several gently rounded whorls, culminating in a blunt, whitish apex. A thin yellow band occasionally traces the suture lines, adding to its jewel-like aesthetic.
Key Features
Brilliant natural green coloration, smooth glossy finish without heavy sculpturing, conical spire with rounded whorls, and arboreal land snail morphology.
Collector Value
Moderately high value among terrestrial shell and land snail collectors due to its exceptional and rare natural green color. Prices typically range from $20 to $50 depending on size and grade.
Condition Notes
Gem condition, exhibiting intact apex, rich unfaded green coloration, smooth lip, and no noticeable fractures or boring marks.
Interesting Facts
Unlike the vast majority of marine shells, this is a land-dwelling pulmonate gastropod. Its striking green color serves as camouflage among the lush rainforest foliage of its island home.
Ecological Role
Feeds on fungi, algae, and lichens growing on tree bark and leaves, playing a minor role in forest nutrient recycling. Populations are sensitive to deforestation.
Similar Species
Papuina woodwardi or other green Papuina species, which can be distinguished by subtle differences in spire height, geographic locality, and specific banding patterns.
Beach Finding Tips
Not found on beaches. This is a land snail, so specimens are historically sourced from forest floors or specialized ethical insect and shell collectors.